[Araya's POV]
The first week is hell.
Ronan pushes Araya harder than anyone has ever pushed her before. Every day starts before dawn and doesn't end until long after dark. Every muscle in her body screams. Every joint aches. Every breath burns.
But Araya refuses to quit.
Day one, Ronan makes her run. Not a gentle jog, but a full sprint through the forest, over roots and rocks and fallen logs. Araya's legs give out after the first mile. She collapses in the snow, gasping for air.
Ronan stands over her, his golden eyes cold. "Get up."
"I can't," Araya pants.
"Then you'll freeze here," Ronan says. "Your choice."
Araya pushes herself up and runs again. She makes it another half mile before collapsing a second time.
Ronan doesn't help her. Doesn't offer encouragement. Just stands there
